𝗕𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗞𝗶𝗱𝗻𝗮𝗽 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝘀𝗲, 𝗠𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗢𝗳 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗙𝗥𝗦𝗖 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿

𝐁𝐘 𝐍𝐈𝐆𝐄𝐑𝐃𝐄𝐋𝐓𝐀 𝐕𝐎𝐈𝐂𝐄,

𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐭𝐚, 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚.

A funeral convoy conveying the remains of a late Deputy Corps Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Augustine O. Ikwue, popularly known as Etume Zero, came under attack by suspected kidnappers along the Ososo–Ajaokuta axis of Kogi State, resulting in the abduction of several mourners.

The victims were travelling to Ai-Ode, Upu community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, where the deceased senior FRSC officer was scheduled to be buried, when the gunmen intercepted the procession.

According to reports, the attackers initially fled with both the abducted mourners and the corpse of the late FRSC commander. However, the remains were later abandoned around Ejule, Kogi State, where they were subsequently recovered.

Citizen journalist and activist Meddy Olotu, who disclosed the incident, said the kidnappers are demanding ₦50 million as ransom for the release of the victims.

Describing the attack as heartbreaking and a reflection of the country's worsening security situation, Olotu lamented that even funeral processions have become targets of criminal activities.

"What kind of country are we living in? Even the dead cannot rest in peace," he said.

He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted mourners and ensure that those responsible for the attack are apprehended and prosecuted.

The tragic incident has sparked fresh concerns over insecurity along major highways, particularly in Kogi State, where cases of kidnapping have continued to pose serious threats to travellers.